Professor of Music Emeritus and Director of Bands Emeritus Robert D. Jorgensen, who led the university's bands for 26 years, passed away July 4, 2015, doing what he loved. He was conducting the Freedom Brass Band during a Fourth of July celebration in downtown Akron when he fell ill.Jorgensen retired in 2013 from School of Music, where he held the titles of director of bands, professor of music and assistant director of the School of Music. When he retired, his colleagues voted unanimously to support awarding him the rank of professor emeritus and director of bands emeritus. Former Akron Mayor Plusquellic declared Oct. 5, 2013, to be Robert D. Jorgensen Day to honor his legacy.

About Robert D. Jorgensen

Professor of Music Emeritus and Director of Bands Emeritus Robert D. Jorgensen, who led the university's bands for 26 years, passed away July 4, 2015, doing what he loved. He was conducting the Freedom Brass Band during a Fourth of July celebration in downtown Akron when he fell ill.Jorgensen retired in 2013 from School of Music, where he held the titles of director of bands, professor of music and assistant director of the School of Music. When he retired, his colleagues voted unanimously to support awarding him the rank of professor emeritus and director of bands emeritus. Former Akron Mayor Plusquellic declared Oct. 5, 2013, to be Robert D. Jorgensen Day to honor his legacy.